EP3544787B1 - System und verfahren zur herstellung eines objekts mittels generativer fertigung - Google Patents

System und verfahren zur herstellung eines objekts mittels generativer fertigung Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3544787B1
EP3544787B1 EP17817228.4A EP17817228A EP3544787B1 EP 3544787 B1 EP3544787 B1 EP 3544787B1 EP 17817228 A EP17817228 A EP 17817228A EP 3544787 B1 EP3544787 B1 EP 3544787B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
storage container
supply
powdered material
container
supply device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17817228.4A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3544787A1 (de
Inventor
Rob Peter Albert Van Haendel
Mark Herman Else Vaes
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Additive Industries BV
Original Assignee
Additive Industries BV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=57460586&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP3544787(B1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Additive Industries BV filed Critical Additive Industries BV
Publication of EP3544787A1 publication Critical patent/EP3544787A1/de
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3544787B1 publication Critical patent/EP3544787B1/de
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00—Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/30—Auxiliary operations or equipment
    • B29C64/307—Handling of material to be used in additive manufacturing
    • B29C64/321—Feeding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00—Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/10—Processes of additive manufacturing
    • B29C64/141—Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials
    • B29C64/153—Processes of additive manufacturing using only solid materials using layers of powder being selectively joined, e.g. by selective laser sintering or melting
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00—Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/20—Apparatus for additive manufacturing; Details thereof or accessories therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B33—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
    • B33Y—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3-D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3-D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING
    • B33Y10/00—Processes of additive manufacturing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B33—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
    • B33Y—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3-D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3-D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING
    • B33Y30/00—Apparatus for additive manufacturing; Details thereof or accessories therefor
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B33—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
    • B33Y—ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING, i.e. MANUFACTURING OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL [3-D] OBJECTS BY ADDITIVE DEPOSITION, ADDITIVE AGGLOMERATION OR ADDITIVE LAYERING, e.g. BY 3-D PRINTING, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY OR SELECTIVE LASER SINTERING
    • B33Y40/00—Auxiliary operations or equipment, e.g. for material handling
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F10/00—Additive manufacturing of workpieces or articles from metallic powder
    • B22F10/20—Direct sintering or melting
    • B22F10/28—Powder bed fusion, e.g. selective laser melting [SLM] or electron beam melting [EBM]
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F10/00—Additive manufacturing of workpieces or articles from metallic powder
    • B22F10/40—Structures for supporting workpieces or articles during manufacture and removed afterwards
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B22—CASTING; POWDER METALLURGY
    • B22F—WORKING METALLIC POWDER; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM METALLIC POWDER; MAKING METALLIC POWDER; APPARATUS OR DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR METALLIC POWDER
    • B22F12/00—Apparatus or devices specially adapted for additive manufacturing; Auxiliary means for additive manufacturing; Combinations of additive manufacturing apparatus or devices with other processing apparatus or devices
    • B22F12/50—Means for feeding of material, e.g. heads
    • B22F12/53—Nozzles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C64/00—Additive manufacturing, i.e. manufacturing of three-dimensional [3D] objects by additive deposition, additive agglomeration or additive layering, e.g. by 3D printing, stereolithography or selective laser sintering
    • B29C64/30—Auxiliary operations or equipment
    • B29C64/357—Recycling
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P10/00—Technologies related to metal processing
    • Y02P10/25—Process efficiency

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a system for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing, comprising a process chamber for receiving a bath of material which can be solidified; a structure for positioning the object in relation to the surface level of the bath of material; a solidifying device for solidifying at least a part of a layer of the material on the surface.
  • 3D printing or additive manufacturing refers to any of various processes for printing a three-dimensional object.
  • Traditional techniques like injection molding can be less expensive for manufacturing, for example, polymer products in high quantities, but 3D printing or additive manufacturing can be faster, more flexible and less expensive when producing relatively small quantities of three-dimensional objects.
  • the three-dimensional object may be produced by using a directed energy beam to selectively sinter a powder, or liquid material to produce a three-dimensional, 3D, object.
  • a computer controlled additive manufacturing system may be used which sequentially sinters a plurality of layers to build the desired object in a layer-by-layer fashion.
  • Primarily additive processes are used, in which successive layers of material are laid down under computer control.
  • a printable model is to be created with a computer design package or via a 3D scanner, for example.
  • the input is a 3D CAD file such as an STL file, a STEP file or a IGS file.
  • the file is to be processed by a piece of software called a slicer, which converts the model into a series of thin subsequent layers. Further, system settings and vectors are generated for controlling the creation of each of the subsequent layers.
  • a laser comprised in the computer controlled additive manufacturing system follows these settings and vectors to lay down successive layers of liquid, powder, paper or sheet material to build the 3D object from a series of cross sections. These layers, which correspond to the virtual cross sections from the CAD model, are then joined or fused to create the final 3D object.
  • DE 102011088158 A1 discloses a secondary circuit for a device for manufacturing of three-dimensional objects.
  • WO 95/34468 A1 discloses a system for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method using said apparatus.
  • the invention provides a system according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 11.
  • the system according to the invention comprises an apparatus with a storage container for storing powdered material that can be solidified; with a process chamber fluidly connected to the storage container and arranged for receiving at least a part of the powdered material, preferably from said storage container, for forming a bath of material within the process chamber; with a structure for positioning the object in relation to the surface level of the bath of material; and with a solidifying device for solidifying at least a part of a layer of the bath of material.
  • said system further comprises a supply device having a supply container for storing a supply of powdered material that can be solidified.
  • Connection means are provided that fluidly connect, or are arranged for fluidly connecting, the supply device to the apparatus, preferably for fluidly connecting the supply container to the storage container.
  • transfer means are provided for transferring powdered material between the supply container and the apparatus, preferably for transferring powdered material between the supply container and the storage container.
  • the supply container may be prefilled during use of the apparatus, and the system may be used to refill the storage container in an idle condition of the solidifying device. This not only ensures that a high quality supply may be provided in the supply container, but also means that the speed of manufacturing may be increased as the transfer of material from the supply container to the storage container may be performed relatively quickly.
  • the apparatus may be provided with a new powder supply even during use of the apparatus, e.g.
  • powdered material may be transferred from the apparatus back to the supply container. This way it is possible to remove a certain batch of powdered material from the apparatus, for example when it is detected that the quality of the powdered material does not reach a certain standard, or when a different material is needed for a next product.
  • a further advantage of the supply device is that powder already present in the storage container may be mixed with a powder supply present in the supply container. In principle, this will be most easily be performed by extracting the powder from the storage container, and mixing with the powder supply in the supply container. After mixing, the mixed power may be supplied to the storage container. This mixing averages the quality of both powders, which counteracts the aging effect that naturally occurs when powdered material resides in the storage container. Thus, the supply device allows the quality of the used powdered material to be increased.
  • the system comprises flushing means for flushing the connection means, in particular with an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen.
  • an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen.
  • the supply device is fluidly connectable to the storage container for supplying powdered material to the storage container, to be used for providing a layer of powdered material to the process chamber.
  • the storage container is arranged as an integral part of the apparatus.
  • an integral part is to be understood as a part that is designed as a part that remains inside the apparatus during a relative long period as opposed to consumable parts that are designed to be exchanged on a regular basis such as a build plate.
  • the use of the supply device according to the invention allows a safe and controlled transfer of powdered material, in particular when, in a connected state of the supply device, the supply container and the process chamber are sealed from the environment. This means that in a connected state, a closed system for transferring powdered material from the supply device to the apparatus, and vice versa, is established. Powdered material is prevented from leaving this closed system.
  • the apparatus comprises an extraction device fluidly connected to the process chamber and arranged for extracting material out of the process chamber.
  • an extraction device fluidly connected to the process chamber and arranged for extracting material out of the process chamber.
  • the extraction device may further be fluidly connected, or at least connectable, to the supply device for transferring the extracted material to the supply device. This allows the powdered material to be directly transferred from the apparatus to the supply device.
  • the apparatus comprises in an embodiment blowing means arranged for inducing a gaseous flow in the process chamber affecting the material to be extracted.
  • the supply device is arranged to be releasably connectable to the storage container. This allows the supply device to be filled and/or emptied off site, i.e. at a location remote from the apparatus, where quality standards and/or conditions may be optimized.
  • Transfer of material between the supply container and the storage container may be effected in an effective manner when the system comprises pneumatic transfer means for transferring the powdered material between the supply container and the storage container.
  • transferring may be from the supply container to the apparatus, for instance to the storage container, or from the apparatus (e.g. storage container) to the supply container, or vice versa, for instance due to the fact that a closed loop is formed between the apparatus and the supply container.
  • the pneumatic transfer means comprise at least a pump and fluid lines for connecting the storage container to the supply container.
  • the pump may be provided in the apparatus itself, for instance in a frame unit thereof.
  • the releasable supply device may comprise the pump, for forming an autonomous supply device.
  • the system comprises a filter unit for filtering powdered material that is being transferred between the supply container and the apparatus. This further enhances the quality of the powdered material.
  • the filter unit comprises a cyclone filter.
  • the filter unit such as the cyclone filter, may be provided on the supply device. This way maintenance of the filter unit is relatively easy.
  • the invention provides a method of supplying powdered material to an apparatus for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing according to claim 11.
  • the method comprises the step of providing an apparatus having a storage container for storing powdered material that can be solidified; a process chamber fluidly connected to the storage container and arranged for receiving at least a part of the powdered material, preferably from the storage container, for forming a bath of material within the process chamber; a structure for positioning the object in relation to the surface level of the bath of material; and a solidifying device for solidifying at least a part of a layer of the bath of material.
  • the method comprises the steps of providing a supply device having a supply container for storing a supply of powdered material that can be solidified.
  • the method further comprises the step of connecting, by means of connecting means, in particular by means of mutually engaging connecting elements that are provided on the apparatus and the supply device, said supply device to the apparatus, preferably the storage container, and transferring powdered material between the supply container and the apparatus, preferably the storage container.
  • said method comprises the step of flushing the connection means, in particular with an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen. In particular this step is performed before any transferring of powder takes place.
  • the method comprises the step of mixing powdered material in the storage container with powdered material in the supply container.
  • the quality of the powdered material in the storage container may be increased.
  • Mixing may take place in the supply container.
  • powdered material may be extracted from the storage container, be transferred to the supply container, and there be mixed with powdered material already present in the supply container. Afterwards, powdered material may be transferred back to the storage container.
  • the method comprises the step of supplying powdered material to the storage container during use of the solidifying device. This decreases the productivity of the apparatus, as the apparatus does not need to be idle for transferring powdered material to the apparatus. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may comprise the step of supplying powdered material to the storage container during non-use of the solidifying device.
  • FIG. 1 shows an overview of a system 1 for producing an object 2 by means of additive manufacturing.
  • the system comprises an apparatus 19 that is built from several frame parts 11, 12, 13, 14.
  • the apparatus 19 comprises a process chamber 3 for receiving a bath of material 4 which can be solidified.
  • a shaft 50 is formed, wherein a support 5 is provided for positioning the object 2 in relation to the surface level L of the bath of material 4.
  • the support 5 is movably provided in the shaft 50, such that after solidifying at least a part of a layer, the support 5 may be lowered, and a further layer of material may be solidified on top of the part of the object 2 already formed.
  • a solidifying device 7 is provided for solidifying a selective part of the material.
  • the solidifying device 7 is a laser device, which is arranged for producing electromagnetic radiation in the form of laser light, in order to melt a powdered material provided on the support, which then, after cooling forms a solidified part of the object 2 to be produced.
  • the invention is not limited to the type of solidifying device 7.
  • the electromagnetic radiation 71 emitted by the laser device 7 is deflected by means of a deflector unit 74, which uses a rotatable optical element 75 to direct the emitted radiation 71 towards the surface L of the layer of material 4.
  • radiation may be emitted, as an example, according to rays 72, 73.
  • powder supply means 6 are provided. These powder supply means 6 comprise a storage container 61 for storing powdered material that can be solidified. This storage container 61 is fluidly connected, via a powder supply means 16, such as a nozzle or a (rotary) valve, to the process chamber 3. Connected to the storage container 61 is a supply device 8.
  • This movable supply device 8 has a supply container 18 for storing a supply of powdered material that can be solidified. As can be seen, the supply device 8 is fluidly connected to the storage container by means of line 86.
  • the system 1 according to the invention is arranged for transferring powdered material between the supply container 18 and the apparatus 19, and in particular between the supply container 18 and the storage container 61.
  • the transfer takes place from the supply container 18 to the storage container 61, and/or from the storage container 61 to the supply container 18.
  • Transfer means such as fluid lines and one or more pumps, may be provided to this end.
  • the supply device 8 is releasably connectable to the storage container 61. Suitable connecting means may be provided to this end, with which the supply device 8 may be connected and/or reconnected to the storage container 61.
  • the supply device 8 is movable due to the fact that a number of wheel elements 19 are provided.
  • the supply device it is relatively easy to refill the storage container 61, or to empty it if needed. Filling and/or emptying may be done relatively quickly, and may even be performed when the solidifying device 7 of the apparatus 19 is active. Filling of the supply device 8 may for instance be performed at a location distant from the apparatus 19, and may thus be performed under specific and controlled conditions, ensuring that the quality of the powdered material reaches a predetermined standard. The subsequent filling may then be performed relatively quickly.
  • the supply device 8 is provided next to the apparatus 19, and connected by means of the connecting means 86 to the apparatus. Once said supply device 8 is connected to the apparatus 19, powdered material may be transferred between the supply container 18 and the apparatus 19.
  • flushing means may be provided for flushing the connection means, in particular with an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen.
  • a gas supply 117 may be present in the device 8 for flushing the connection means and conduits. Alternatively, the gas supply may be present in the apparatus 19 itself (not shown).
  • the connection means may be flushed, in particular with an inert gas such as argon or nitrogen.
  • an inert gas for flushing the lines and conduits increases the quality of the powder supply, as oxygen uptake by the powder will be prevented. Additionally, this increases the safety of the system, as the risk of explosion is dramatically reduced when oxygen is replaced by inert gases.
  • the powdered material in the storage container 61 may be extracted to the supply container 18, where mixing takes place, whereafter the mixed powder may be transferred back to the storage container 61.
  • the use of the storage device 8 allows the step of supplying powdered material to the storage container 61 to be performed during use of the solidifying device 7.
  • Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of the system 1 with the apparatus 19.
  • both storage containers 61, 62 are provided. Both storage containers 61, 62 are connected to the powder supply nozzle 16. Powder from both containers 61, 62 may thus be provided to the process chamber 3.
  • the supply device 8 is connected, via lines 86 and 86', to both storage containers 61, 62. Powder may be supplied to both containers 61, 62, or may be extracted from both containers 61, 62. Alternatively, powder may be supplied to the top most container 62, and may be extracted from the bottom container 61.
  • Figure 3 shows a further embodiment of the system 1.
  • the apparatus 19 shown further comprises an extraction device 9 fluidly connected to the process chamber 3 and arranged for extracting material 4 out of the process chamber.
  • the extraction device 9 may be a pump.
  • the supply device 8 is fluidly connected to the extraction device 9, and thus to the process chamber 3, by means of extraction line 89. Thus, when the extraction device 9 is activated, excess powder from the process chamber 3 may be transferred to the supply device 8 for further use.
  • Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of the system 1.
  • the apparatus 19 is provided with blowing means 10 on the opposite side of the process chamber 3 for inducing a gaseous flow in the process chamber 3 effecting the material to be extracted. Further blowing means may be provided as well, for more effectively influencing the powdered material in the process chamber 3.
  • the blow nozzle 10 is connected via lines 82 to a control unit 94.
  • the extraction device 9 is connected via line 84 to the control unit 94.
  • the control unit 94 may be used to start and/or stop the blowing nozzle 10 (or nozzles).
  • the extraction device 9, for instance in the form of a suction device 9, is also connected to this control unit 94, such that operation thereof may be synchronized. It is, however, conceivable that the extraction device 9 is provided with a separate control unit.
  • Figure 4 further shows that the extraction device 9 is connected to the supply device 8 by means of extraction line 89.
  • a storage container 61 is provided in the lower frame part 11 of the apparatus 19, and is also connected to the extraction device 9.
  • the storage container 61 is also connected to the supply device 8.
  • the storage container 61 is fluidly connected to the process chamber 3, such that a layer of material may be deposited in the process chamber 3. Details of this fluid connection are not shown in Figure 4 , but these details have already been described with reference to Figure 1 .
  • FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of the system 1 having two additional nozzles 92, 93, which may be movable nozzles 92, 93, and in which in particular details of the apparatus 19 downstream of the extraction device 9 are shown.
  • the extraction device 9 comprises an extraction tube 121 comprising a pumping unit (shown as one unit 121), wherein an inlet opening of the extraction tube 121 is positioned within the process chamber 3.
  • the extraction device 9 is fluidly connected, via line 87, to a filter unit 101, in particular a cyclone filter unit 101, which may be used to filter the extracted gaseous flow containing the material extracted from the process chamber. For instance, this allows powdered material contained in the flow to be filtered and collected for further usage.
  • the cyclone filter unit 101 is connected, via line 111, to a first storage container 103 or collector, for collecting powdered material filtered by the filter unit 101.
  • the gaseous flow may, after having passed the filter unit 101, be exhausted from the apparatus 19 by means of exhaust tube 114 and exhaust outlet 104. In this way, the gaseous flow may be vented through the exhaust tube 114 and outlet 104.
  • the exhaust tube 114 is connected to the blowing means 10, such that the filtered gas flow may once again be introduced into the process chamber.
  • the first storage container 103 is connected, via line 112, to a second storage container 102, provided above the first storage container 103. Material collected in the first storage container 103 may be transferred via line 112 to the second storage container 102, for later use.
  • An overflow line 113 is provided between the second storage container 102 and the filter unit 101, which may be used to filter the extracted material a plurality of times, by re-feeding said material back to the filter unit a number of times, for instance.
  • the extraction device 9 may be connected to one or more storage container 103, 102 for holding material extracted from the process chamber. This material may be re-used, for instance for laying down a further layer of material to be solidified.
  • the system 1 comprises a supply device 8 that is connected to the first storage container 103 and the second storage container 102, via lines 86 and 88, respectively.
  • the supply device 8 comprises a supply container 118, and a filter unit 119 provided upstream thereof.
  • a pump unit (not shown) may be used to transfer powdered material from the supply device 118 to the first storage container 103. Additionally, or alternatively, powdered material may be extracted from the second storage container 102 to the supply container 118.
  • the filter unit 119 may be used to further filter the powdered material coming from the second storage container 102.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Powder Metallurgy (AREA)

Claims (15)

  1. System (1) zur Herstellung eines Objekts (2) mittels additiver Fertigung, umfassend eine Vorrichtung (19) mit:
    einem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zum Speichern von pulverförmigem Material, das verfestigt werden kann;
    einer Prozesskammer (3), die mit dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) fluidisch verbunden ist und dazu angeordnet ist, zumindest einen Teil des pulverförmigen Materials aus dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zum Bilden eines Bads aus Material (4) innerhalb der Prozesskammer (3) aufzunehmen;
    einer Struktur (5) zum Positionieren des Objekts (2) in Bezug auf die Oberflächenebene (L) des Bads aus Material (4); und
    einer Verfestigungsvorrichtung (7) zum Verfestigen zumindest eines Teils einer Schicht des Bads aus Material (4);
    wobei das System (1) ferner umfasst:
    eine Zuführungsvorrichtung (8), die zum Nachfüllen des Speicherbehälters (102, 103) mit einem neuen Vorrat an pulverförmigem Material angeordnet ist, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) einen Zuführungsbehälter (118) zum Speichern des neuen Vorrats an pulverförmigem Material aufweist, das verfestigt werden kann und das dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zugeführt werden kann, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) so angeordnet ist, dass sie lösbar mit der Vorrichtung (19) verbunden werden kann;
    Verbindungsmittel zum fluidischen Verbinden des Zuführungsbehälters (118) mit dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103); und
    Übertragungsmittel zum Übertragen von pulverförmigem Material zwischen dem Zuführungsbehälter (118) und dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103);
    dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das System (1) eine Filtereinheit (101, 119) zum Filtern von pulverförmigem Material umfasst, das zwischen dem Zuführungsbehälter (118) und der Vorrichtung (19) übertragen wird.
  2. System (1) nach Anspruch 1, ferner umfassend Spülmittel zum Spülen der Verbindungsmittel, insbesondere mit einem Inertgas wie Argon oder Stickstoff.
  3. System (1) nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei der Speicherbehälter (102, 103) als integraler Bestandteil der Vorrichtung (19) angeordnet ist.
  4. System (1) nach Anspruch 1, 2 oder 3, wobei in einem verbundenen Zustand der Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) der Zuführungsbehälter (118) und die Prozesskammer (3) gegenüber der Umgebung abgedichtet sind.
  5. System (1) nach Anspruch 1, 2, 3 oder 4, wobei die Vorrichtung (19) eine Extraktionsvorrichtung (9) umfasst, die mit der Prozesskammer (3) fluidisch verbunden ist und zum Extrahieren von Material aus der Prozesskammer (3) angeordnet ist.
  6. System (1) nach Anspruch 5, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) mit der Extraktionsvorrichtung (9) zum Übertragen des extrahierten Materials an die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) fluidisch verbunden oder zumindest verbindbar ist.
  7. System (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Übertragungsmittel pneumatische Übertragungsmittel umfassen.
  8. System (1) nach Anspruch 7, wobei die pneumatischen Übertragungsmittel zumindest eine Pumpe und Fluidleitungen zum Verbinden des Zuführungsbehälters (18, 118) mit der Vorrichtung (19) umfassen, vorzugsweise wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) die Pumpe umfasst.
  9. System (1) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Filtereinheit (101) einen Zyklonfilter umfasst.
  10. System nach Anspruch 9, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) die Filtereinheit (119) umfasst.
  11. Verfahren zum Zuführen von pulverförmigem Material zu einer Vorrichtung (19) zur Herstellung eines Objekts (2) mittels additiver Fertigung, wobei die Vorrichtung (19) umfasst:
    einen Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zum Speichern von pulverförmigem Material, das verfestigt werden kann;
    eine Prozesskammer (3), die mit dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) fluidisch verbunden ist und so angeordnet ist, dass sie zumindest einen Teil des pulverförmigen Materials aus dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zum Bilden eines Bads aus Material (4) innerhalb der Prozesskammer (3) aufnimmt;
    eine Struktur (5) zum Positionieren des Objekts (2) in Bezug auf die Oberflächenebene (L) des Bads aus Material (4); und
    eine Verfestigungsvorrichtung (7) zum Verfestigen zumindest eines Teils einer Schicht des Bads aus Material (4);
    wobei das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte umfasst:
    Bereitstellen einer Zuführungsvorrichtung (8), die zum Nachfüllen des Speicherbehälters (102, 103) mit einem neuen Vorrat an pulverförmigem Material angeordnet ist, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) einen Zuführungsbehälter (118) zum Speichern eines Vorrats an pulverförmigem Material aufweist, das verfestigt werden kann und das dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103) zugeführt werden kann, wobei die Zuführungsvorrichtung (8) so angeordnet ist, dass sie lösbar mit der Vorrichtung (19) verbunden werden kann;
    Bereitstellen einer Filtereinheit (101, 119) zum Filtern von pulverförmigem Material, das zwischen dem Zuführungsbehälter (118) und der Vorrichtung (19) übertragen wird;
    Verbinden, durch Verbindungsmittel, des Zuführungsbehälters (118) mit dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103);
    Übertragen von pulverförmigem Material zwischen dem Zuführungsbehälter (118) und dem Speicherbehälter (102, 103); und
    Filtern, durch die Filtereinheit (119), von pulverförmigem Material, das zwischen dem Zuführungsbehälter (118) und der Vorrichtung (19) übertragen wird.
  12. Verfahren nach Anspruch 11, wobei das Verfahren den Schritt des Spülens der Verbindungsmittel umfasst, insbesondere mit einem Inertgas wie Argon oder Stickstoff.
  13. Verfahren nach Anspruch 11 oder 12, wobei das Verfahren den Schritt des Mischens von pulverförmigem Material im Speicherbehälter (102, 103) mit pulverförmigem Material im Zuführungsbehälter (118) umfasst.
  14. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 11 bis 13, wobei das Verfahren den Schritt des Zuführens von pulverförmigem Material in den Speicherbehälter (102, 103) während der Verwendung der Verfestigungsvorrichtung (7) umfasst.
  15. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 11 bis 14, wobei das Verfahren den Schritt des Zuführens von pulverförmigem Material in den Speicherbehälter (102, 103) während der Nicht-Verwendung der Verfestigungsvorrichtung (7) umfasst.
EP17817228.4A 2016-11-24 2017-11-10 System und verfahren zur herstellung eines objekts mittels generativer fertigung Active EP3544787B1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2017864A NL2017864B1 (en) 2016-11-24 2016-11-24 System for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing
PCT/NL2017/050727 WO2018097708A1 (en) 2016-11-24 2017-11-10 System for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3544787A1 EP3544787A1 (de) 2019-10-02
EP3544787B1 true EP3544787B1 (de) 2022-05-25

Family

ID=57460586

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17817228.4A Active EP3544787B1 (de) 2016-11-24 2017-11-10 System und verfahren zur herstellung eines objekts mittels generativer fertigung

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US11511487B2 (de)
EP (1) EP3544787B1 (de)
JP (1) JP7105764B2 (de)
CN (1) CN110494271B (de)
NL (1) NL2017864B1 (de)
WO (1) WO2018097708A1 (de)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
NL2017864B1 (en) 2016-11-24 2018-06-01 Additive Ind Bv System for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing
US20210205928A1 (en) * 2017-10-23 2021-07-08 Renishaw Plc Powder bed fusion apparatus
WO2020219031A1 (en) * 2019-04-23 2020-10-29 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Filter housing
CN112223747B (zh) * 2020-09-23 2022-10-04 浙江精功机器人智能装备有限公司 一种铺粉式3d打印机

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995034468A1 (en) * 1994-06-14 1995-12-21 Soligen, Inc. Powder handling apparatus for additive fabrication equipment
DE102011088158A1 (de) 2011-12-09 2013-06-13 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Nebenkreislauf für eine Vorrichtung zur Herstellung dreidimensionaler Objekte
WO2013092757A1 (fr) 2011-12-20 2013-06-27 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Machine et procédé pour la fabrication additive à base de poudre
WO2013178825A2 (fr) 2012-06-01 2013-12-05 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Machine et procédé pour la fabrication additive à base de poudre
WO2016131785A1 (fr) 2015-02-16 2016-08-25 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Procede de gestion d'une poudre dans une installation de fabrication additive comprenant une pluralite de machines
EP3243620A1 (de) 2016-05-09 2017-11-15 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft System zur additiven fertigung
WO2018097708A1 (en) 2016-11-24 2018-05-31 Additive Industries B.V. System for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing

Family Cites Families (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7296599B2 (en) 2005-03-31 2007-11-20 3D Systems, Inc. Pneumatic powder transport system
GB2472783B (en) * 2009-08-14 2012-05-23 Norsk Titanium Components As Device for manufacturing titanium objects
GB201204752D0 (en) * 2012-03-19 2012-05-02 Bae Systems Plc Additive layer manufacturing
US20140265049A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Matterfab Corp. Cartridge for an additive manufacturing apparatus and method
GB201316815D0 (en) * 2013-09-23 2013-11-06 Renishaw Plc Additive manufacturing apparatus and method
EP3023227B1 (de) * 2014-11-24 2018-01-03 SLM Solutions Group AG Pulverkreislauf zur Verwendung in einer Vorrichtung zur Herstellung von dreidimensionalen Werkstücken
US11458539B2 (en) 2014-11-24 2022-10-04 Additive Industries B.V. Apparatus for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing
EP3187327B1 (de) * 2015-11-13 2020-04-22 Technology Research Association for Future Additive Manufacturing Vorrichtung zur dreidimensionalen laminierung und formung, steuerungsverfahren für vorrichtung zur dreidimensionalen laminierung und formung und steuerungsprogramm für vorrichtung zur dreidimensionalen laminierung und formung
CN109843558B (zh) * 2016-10-27 2022-01-04 惠普发展公司，有限责任合伙企业 构建材料容器的入口
US20180339466A1 (en) * 2017-05-26 2018-11-29 Divergent Technologies, Inc. Material handling in additive manufacturing
US20210205928A1 (en) * 2017-10-23 2021-07-08 Renishaw Plc Powder bed fusion apparatus

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995034468A1 (en) * 1994-06-14 1995-12-21 Soligen, Inc. Powder handling apparatus for additive fabrication equipment
DE102011088158A1 (de) 2011-12-09 2013-06-13 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Nebenkreislauf für eine Vorrichtung zur Herstellung dreidimensionaler Objekte
WO2013092757A1 (fr) 2011-12-20 2013-06-27 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Machine et procédé pour la fabrication additive à base de poudre
WO2013178825A2 (fr) 2012-06-01 2013-12-05 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Machine et procédé pour la fabrication additive à base de poudre
WO2016131785A1 (fr) 2015-02-16 2016-08-25 Compagnie Generale Des Etablissements Michelin Procede de gestion d'une poudre dans une installation de fabrication additive comprenant une pluralite de machines
EP3243620A1 (de) 2016-05-09 2017-11-15 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft System zur additiven fertigung
WO2018097708A1 (en) 2016-11-24 2018-05-31 Additive Industries B.V. System for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
"SLM", 1 January 2014, SLM SOLUTIONS GMBH, article ANONYMOUS: "Betriebsanleitung Pulver Sieb Maschine Semi-Automatisch PSH 100", pages: 1 - 14, XP093029208
ANONYMOUS: "Betriebsanleitung Selective Laser Melting-Anlage SLM®280HL", SLM SOLUTIONS GMBH, 1 January 2015 (2015-01-01), pages 1 - 16, XP093045437

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US11511487B2 (en) 2022-11-29
CN110494271A (zh) 2019-11-22
WO2018097708A1 (en) 2018-05-31
JP2020513340A (ja) 2020-05-14
CN110494271B (zh) 2022-10-14
JP7105764B2 (ja) 2022-07-25
NL2017864B1 (en) 2018-06-01
EP3544787A1 (de) 2019-10-02
US20190375152A1 (en) 2019-12-12

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3544787B1 (de) System und verfahren zur herstellung eines objekts mittels generativer fertigung
EP1152848B1 (de) Verfahren und vorrichtung zur herstellung einer gusskomponente
CN109153176B (zh) 三维打印系统中构造材料的冷却
US7074029B2 (en) Accumulation, control and accounting of fluid by-product from a solid deposition modeling process
US7118206B1 (en) Gas bubble removal from ink-jet dispensing devices
EP2363221A2 (de) Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Herstellung eines Gussteils
JP2018524245A (ja) 付加製造装置の粉体搬送システム及び方法
CN109070477B (zh) 冷却3d打印系统中的构建材料
JP6482006B2 (ja) 三次元造形装置
EP3612390B1 (de) Dreidimensionaler drucker
CN104441656A (zh) 三维打印机及其打印方法
CN204196268U (zh) 三维打印机
CN210211369U (zh) 一种针对颗粒材料的熔混3d打印系统
US20220193781A1 (en) Circulation paths for fluid dispensing devices
CN204844876U (zh) 一种自动清理台面的3d打印机
NL2013860B1 (en) Apparatus for producing an object by means of additive manufacturing.
CN210139628U (zh) 一种用于颗粒材料3d打印的熔混装置
CN210139620U (zh) 一种用于3d打印的打印机
WO2019094267A1 (en) Powder refill system for an additive manufacturing machine
US20170100772A1 (en) Manufacturing article from metal alloy
CA2824923C (en) Method and apparatus for production of a cast component
BR102022011299A2 (pt) Método e aparato fabricação de objetos 3d cerâmicos e metálicos através de manufatura aditiva
CN109986774A (zh) 一种3d打印机
JP2019089283A (ja) 三次元造形装置

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20190517

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20200917

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

GRAJ Information related to disapproval of communication of intention to grant by the applicant or resumption of examination proceedings by the epo deleted

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSDIGR1

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: B33Y 40/00 20200101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B33Y 30/00 20150101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B33Y 10/00 20150101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B22F 12/00 20210101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B22F 10/20 20210101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B29C 64/20 20170101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B22F 3/105 20060101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B29C 64/357 20170101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B29C 64/321 20170101ALI20211029BHEP

Ipc: B29C 64/153 20170101AFI20211029BHEP

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20211125

INTC Intention to grant announced (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20220126

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602017057858

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1494090

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20220615

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG9D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20220525

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 1494090

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220926

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220825

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220826

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220825

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220925

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R026

Ref document number: 602017057858

Country of ref document: DE

PLBI Opposition filed

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009260

PLAX Notice of opposition and request to file observation + time limit sent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS2

26 Opposition filed

Opponent name: SLM SOLUTIONS GROUP AG

Effective date: 20230221

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PLBB Reply of patent proprietor to notice(s) of opposition received

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNOBS3

P01 Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered

Effective date: 20230527

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221130

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221130

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221110

PLAB Opposition data, opponent's data or that of the opponent's representative modified

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009299OPPO

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20221110

R26 Opposition filed (corrected)

Opponent name: NIKON SLM SOLUTIONS AG

Effective date: 20230221

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20231123

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20231124

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20231120

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20231121

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20231120

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20171110

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20220525